Most of us, at one time or another, have left jobs not under the best of conditions. Some even exaggerate their resumes. While we all wish we could go back and change things, what's done is done. The best we can do is tell the truth. Employers want employees with integrity, and if they find out that you lied in the hiring process -- and they will -- they'll show you the door.

Look at what happened to Yale football coach Tom Williams in 2011. Williams, first hired in 2009, put on his resume that he was a candidate for a Rhodes Scholarship. It wasn't a small lie...it was a whopper. When Yale started investigating whether the claim was fabricated, Williams resigned [source: ESPN].

So how do you explain bad things away and still not screw up the interview? Experts say honesty is the best policy, although many people may have to shade the truth. Spinning is an art form not just reserved for politicians. Your answers should show responsibility and paint you in the best possible light no matter the situation [source: Zupek].